November 22, (THEWILL) — The Catholic Bishop of Wukari Diocese, Most Rev. Mark Nzukwein, has expressed deep concern over the escalating wave of insecurity in parts of Taraba State, lamenting the spate of violent killings, displacement of rural communities, and government/media silence on the crisis.
The Bishop made the remarks during the Thanksgiving Mass organised by the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo in honour of the Taraba State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Fr. Williams Awoshiri, and the YOWICAN Chairman, Mr Julius Job Saleh. The event also marked Fr. Awoshiri’s 50th birthday and the launch of his new book.
Delivering his homily before a congregation that included top government functionaries, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, Bishop Nzukwein said the church could not remain silent in the face of worsening attacks in Ussa and Takum, where scores have been killed and hundreds of villages displaced.
“The state is at a crossroads, confused about its identity. Our people are being killed, communities are being deserted, and thousands lack access to basic amenities and healthcare. We cannot pretend that all is well”, the Bishop lamented.
He called for an end to what he described as a “media silence” surrounding the killings, urging government at all levels, humanitarian agencies, and well-meaning individuals to treat the situation as an emergency.
Speaking directly to the CAN leadership, Bishop Nzukwein said their role at a time like this is crucial.
“You are the face of Christianity in Taraba. Let your words and actions align with the vision of Christ. Reach out to the vulnerable, the marginalised, the oppressed, victims of violence, and those suffering from natural disasters”, he said.
He charged CAN to take the lead in justice, love, reconciliation, and speaking truth to power, adding that leadership is a sacred trust that requires accountability both on earth and before God.
Bishop Nzukwein also criticised the poor state of governance reflected in neglected infrastructure such as the Namnai Bridge, which he said has caused harm to motorists and pedestrians.
“The greatest problem lies not only with terrorists but with those in corridors of power who lack understanding of democracy”, he said, stressing that good leadership must prioritise the welfare and safety of citizens.
The Bishop expressed hope that Rev. Fr. Awoshiri, whom he described as “a gentle, disciplined, and dedicated man of God”, would bring stability and moral strength to the Christian community.
He noted that expectations of CAN are high, especially in a state endowed with natural and human resources yet burdened by underdevelopment and insecurity.
He praised YOWICAN Chairman Julius Job as a model for Taraba youths due to his passion for self-development and commitment to empowering young people.
Representing Governor Agbu Kefas, Chief of Staff, Dr Jeji Williams, expressed worry over the national reports of Christian killings, assuring that the governor remains committed to sustaining peace and unity in Taraba State.
Bishop Charles M. Hammawa of the Jalingo Diocese reaffirmed that the Thanksgiving was not a victory over anyone but a celebration of the Christian community.
He also cautioned against using CAN as a platform to curry political favour, adding that while CAN will relate with the government to promote synergy between them and the Christian community, CAM must also remain uncontrolled by the government.
Also speaking, the Archbishop of Abuja Archdiocese, Most Rev Ignatius Kaigama, encouraged Christians to strengthen CAN, while calling on the government to embrace constructive criticism as a tool for good governance.
In an interview after the Mass, YOWICAN Chairman Julius Job expressed gratitude for the honour, saying the messages delivered in the homily would serve as a guide for their leadership.
During the book launch segment, former Governor Rev. Jolly T. Nyame, who chaired the occasion, urged Christians to support the CAN Chairman and his team, noting that “he is coming in at a difficult time, and if he fails, we all fail.”
